Aloisi starts coaching career in style

It could not have been a better start to life as an A-League coach for John Aloisi.

Outfoxing the A-League's best credentialled coach with a perfectly employed battle plan, and upsetting the competition's biggest club and crosstown rivals in front of a huge crowd.

Aloisi's Melbourne Heart left Etihad Stadium on Friday night with three well-deserved points - the 2-1 win over Melbourne Victory the club's first opening round win in their three-season history - and a swagger in their step.

Few had considered Heart and their rookie coach as serious finals hopes.

They'll be reconsidering after Aloisi's clear tactical nous was executed to the letter by his players, some of whom are clearly revitalised under the former Socceroo.